More than 50% parents did not know the advantage of applying ‘Kajal’. On interview, the following information was collected.Ħ4% mothers were educated up to class 12 th and more ĩ0% mothers applied ‘Kajal’ simply due to the advise of their elders Most of the children were under five years of age. Of these, 48 were girls and 38 were boys.
Eighty-six children had been applied ’Kajal’. One hundred consecutive children under 12 years of age of both genders and all religions (65% Hindus, 30% Muslims, and 5% other religions) were examined for use of ‘Kajal’. The beliefs and practices with respect to use of ‘Kajal’ in children attending a tertiary care pediatric hospital in northern India are described. Although concerns about its safety have been raised, its use in pediatric age is very prevalent. Application of ‘Kajal’ (also known as kohl or surma) is a common practice in Indian families.
